Wednesday, January 8, 2025 The United Kingdom is advancing its efforts to digitise border controls with the expansion of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme. As of January 8, 2025, travellers from 54 countries, including 48 non-European nations and select European countries starting April 2025, are now required to complete an online pre-travel check to enter the UK. This development aims to enhance border security and streamline entry processes while introducing significant changes to visa-free travel.
Who Needs an ETA? The ETA is mandatory for visitors and transit passengers from countries that previously did not require a visa for short stays. Notable additions include the United States, Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Starting April 2, 2025, travellers from European countries will also be subject to this requirement, with applications for these visitors opening on March 5, 2025.
Background and Rollout First introduced in November 2023 for Qatari nationals, the ETA has since expanded to include Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. The scheme will now cover a broader range of countries, representing a significant step toward modernising UK border controls. British and Irish citizens remain exempt, while travellers requiring a visa do not need an additional ETA.
How Does the ETA Work? The ETA is a digital authorisation linked to the traveller’s passport. Applications can be completed online or via a dedicated mobile app. The process in.
